In an otherwise desolate footballing environment, private initiatives like Leisure Leagues provide a glimmer of hope…
Decades of administrative incompetence have hindered Pakistan’s growth as a footballing nation. Currently ranked at an all-time low of 203 in the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, the country’s potential has never been realised due to a dearth of relevant infrastructure, training facilities, and reputable personnel. As recently as October 2017, the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) was handed an indefinite suspension by FIFA after political meddling had constituted a breach of the governing body’s statutes – only for the ban to be lifted in March 2018 after the necessary changes were made.
The negligent and volatile nature of the federation is particularly concerning, and one would expect it to dispirit the budding talent around the country. However, the reality of the situation is refreshingly positive – with many adopting a more optimistic approach due to the private sector’s interest in facilitating progress. One such example is Leisure Leagues, a UK-based company which specialises in organising recreational five-a-side and six-a-side football games around the globe. Franchised by World Group in Pakistan, the entity has evolved into a full-fledged juggernaut which aspires to revolutionise the sport for the region’s inhabitants.
Pakistan I'm coming! 🇵🇰 🙌🏽 #RonaldinhoInPakistan #worldgroup1912 #leisureleaguespk @leisureleagues pic.twitter.com/y6GwHf131r
— Ronaldinho Gaúcho (@10Ronaldinho) March 12, 2017
As of now, the organisation’s crowning achievement has been bringing an array of international stars, headlined by Brazilian legend Ronaldinho, to the country for a series of exhibition matches. The group of footballers, dubbed “Ronaldinho & Friends”, also included European stalwarts like Ryan Giggs, David James, Robert Pires, and Nicolas Anelka. There were games played in Karachi and Lahore as the promotional event succeeded in piquing the interest of both casual and hardcore supporters – with crowds clearly overjoyed at the prospect of seeing their heroes up-close.
Another mega-fixture is apparently on the cards this year as well, but there is more to Leisure Leagues than the ability to attract big names. The venture extends to a more grass-roots level, with a focus on youth initiatives to hone the skills of future prospects – and even improve their livelihood through scholarships and developmental projects. Moreover, there is an emphasis on building a sense of community for Pakistan’s football enthusiasts through more intimate gatherings like giveaways and match screenings.
The most recent viewing was held for the UEFA Champions League final in each of the country’s three major cities; Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. With anywhere from 300-500 people typically showing up to such events, it further reinforces the existence of a significant fan-base within Pakistan – one that would ideally carry over to the international stage if and when the time comes. At the moment, crowds are seemingly restricted to following European football as local tournaments fail to maintain consistency and lack the resources to meet worldwide standards.
Even so, external interest in the sport is bound to generate new opportunities for players and fans alike. After bearing witness to the rewards of genuine investment, the PFF should also revamp its strategy for the coming years. The right steps are being taken with the appointment of foreign coaches and more active player recruitment, but a certain level of stability and sustained development are needed before Pakistan can truly establish itself as a solid outfit. And if we can eventually reach a more respectable standing, then who’s to say we can’t dream of hearing Pak Sarzameen echoing around a World Cup stadium one day…